Nigerian Army marks 162 years, encourages youth to join military

The Nigerian Army has marked its 162nd anniversary with a strong appeal to the nation’s youth to embrace military service as a career and a patriotic duty.

The call was made by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Ajose, during a sensitisation event at Yahaya Abdulkarim Model Primary and Secondary School in Sokoto on Tuesday. He was represented by Brig.-Gen. Aliyu Musa.

Speaking at the event, Ajose described the Nigerian Army as a pillar of national unity, pride, and professionalism, stressing that the military remains committed to defending the country’s territorial integrity and protecting its citizens.

“Our mission is defend the nation, root out terrorism, and uphold the peace and security that every Nigerian deserves. Our strategies are focused, and our commitment is unwavering,” Ajose said.

Ajose encouraged young Nigerians to seize the numerous career opportunities the Army offers, noting that recruitment is open to eligible individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of tribe or religion.

The GOC also highlighted the ongoing Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, which features a series of activities, including prayers, symbolic events, and community outreach programmes aimed at strengthening the bond between the military and civilians.

“These celebrations are not just ceremonial they are moments of reflection, thanksgiving, and recommitment to service. We honor our fallen heroes, our serving personnel, and the unity that binds us,” Ajose added.

Also speaking, Lt.-Col. Nuhu Yahaya, Acting Director of Education Services, 8 Division, explained the recruitment process for both commissioned and non-commissioned officers, urging students to see the military as more than a job, but a vital contribution to nation-building.

In her remarks, the school’s Principal, Hajia Murjanatu Muhammad, and Head Teacher, Hajia Lubabatu Musa, commended the Army for the initiative, saying the interaction would inspire students to consider roles in national defence.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) 8 Division, Mrs. Meg Ndidi Ajose, hailed the role of women in supporting the military, describing them as the “unseen strength behind the uniform.”

“The strength behind the uniform is a woman. We are the caregivers, the moral compass, the voices of peace. We bridge the gap between the barracks and civilian life. We nurture, we educate, and we heal,” Mrs. Ajose said.

She also emphasised the importance of women in promoting hygiene, education, and moral values within military communities and society at large.